The Wildlife Crime Tech Challenge was initiated in 2014 and closed in November 2017. For the latest information on USAID's approach to combating wildlife trafficking, please visit www.USAID.gov/biodiversity/wildlife-trafficking. For the latest information on individual Tech Challenge Winners, their contact information may be found on the Winners page.

We are proud to announce our Grand Prize Winners!

We are proud to award more than $900,000 to our four Grand Prize Winners! Chosen from 16 elite Prize Winners, these innovators presented truly exceptional and promising innovations that can significantly impact the fight against the illegal trafficking of terrestrial and marine wildlife. Find out more!

SOLUTIONS WILL HELP:

Detect Transit Routes

StrengthenForensic Evidence

ReduceConsumer Demand

TackleCorruption

We reward solutions that address four critical wildlife crime issues

Strengthen Forensic Evidence

The Problem: Authorities are often unable to identify illegal wildlife parts and products quickly or accurately or to share critical data with other agencies. This hampers the interdiction and criminal prosecution of traffickers.

Reduce Consumer Demand

The Problem: Cultural and societal norms influence surging demand for illegal wildlife. Live wildlife and their parts are used as pets, status symbols, ornaments, food, medicine, and religious symbols. Lack of awareness means that many consumers do not realize their actions contribute to the decimation of wild animal populations and an underground criminal trade that hurts economies and communities.

Tackle Corruption

The Problem: Corruption enables wildlife trafficking at multiple stages along illegal supply chains. As the trade becomes more lucrative and dangerous, there are greater incentives for individuals in positions of power to accept bribes or other favors, or even to organize illegal trade networks.

Meet our Prize Winners!

Sixteen innovators receive $10,000, as well as recognition, networking, and technical support. They will now compete for as much as $500,000 to scale their solutions. Learn more about our Prize Winners.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

This website is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The Wildlife Crime Tech Challenge is supported by USAID's Forestry and Biodiversity Office under Contract #AID-OAA-C-14-00182 with Integra Government Services International LLC, with subcontractor support from PricewaterhouseCoopers Public Sector LLP and Sonjara, Inc. The information provided on this website is not official U.S. government information and does not necessarily represent the views or positions of USAID, the U.S. government, National Geographic Society, the Smithsonian Institution, or TRAFFIC, or supporting subcontractors. Read our full Security & Privacy Policy.